The Curious Case of Mary Magdalene: From Sinner to Saint

Sources:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=saved&v=1285143176741563 Luisa Omielan
https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/history/marymagdalene.shtml
https://broadview.org/mary-magdalene-easter-story/
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/who-was-mary-magdalene-119565482/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Magdalene
https://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/id/eprint/192913/1/Final%20Submitted%20Mary%20Magdalene%20-%20Warren.pdf

This video explores the life and legacy of Mary Magdalene, a significant yet often misunderstood figure in Christian history. Originating from biblical texts, Mary Magdalene was a wealthy, loyal disciple who witnessed Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. The script delves into how her reputation was tarnished over centuries, notably by Pope Gregory I, who labeled her a sinful prostitute. The narrative also uncovers Mary Magdalene's leadership role and significant influence through the rediscovery of the Gospel of Mary in 1896. The discussion highlights the enduring impact of patriarchal narratives and the importance of revisiting historical figures to uncover their true contributions.

00:00 Thanksgiving and Grand Prix Dilemma
01:13 A Coffee Shop Story
02:36 Introducing Mary Magdalene
03:48 Mary Magdalene's Role in Christianity
08:06 Pope Gregory's Influence
15:28 Mary Magdalene in Art and Culture
17:24 The Many Marys in the Bible
17:56 Confusion and Misidentification
19:29 Cultural Impact and Misconceptions
19:51 Modern Reassessment of Mary Magdalene
23:22 The Gospel of Mary: A Hidden Text
25:07 Mary's Leadership and Influence
26:10 Controversy and Jealousy Among Disciples
31:54 Mary Magdalene's Legacy and Modern Interpretations
37:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Celebrating Carmen Beckford: A Legacy of Unity and Cultural Celebration

In this heartfelt episode, Cara and Vicky discuss the incredible life and legacy of Carmen Beckford, a Jamaican-born midwife and social activist. Despite initial adversities as part of the Windrush generation, Carmen's tireless efforts in fostering community relationships and cultural pride in Bristol earned her significant recognition. Known for co-founding the world-renowned St. Paul's Carnival, Carmen's work transcended entertainment; it brought communities together and advocated for racial equality. Her story exemplifies the power of authenticity, unity, and perseverance in effecting lasting social change.

00:00 Introduction and Technical Glitch
00:32 Casual Chat and Local Job Opportunity
02:23 Exploring Bristol: Haunted Bookshop and Cemetery Tour
03:33 Introducing Carmen Beckford
04:39 Carmen's Early Life and Journey to the UK
07:11 Challenges Faced by the Windrush Generation
11:45 Carmen's Career and Activism in Bristol
18:04 Founding the St. Paul's Carnival
19:01 Trust Your Inner Compass
19:36 Creating Unity Through Art
20:20 Celebrating Cultural Pride
21:02 The Organizational Effort Behind Carnival
22:28 Facing Racism with Steely Determination
25:58 Empowering the Younger Generation
29:10 Recognition and Legacy
34:04 Lessons from Carmen Beckford's Life
36:36 Conclusion and Call to Action

Queen Nanny: The Maroon Leader Who Defied the British Empire

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' the hosts explore the captivating story of Queen Nanny of the Maroons. Set against the backdrop of early 18th century Jamaica, Nanny led the Windward Maroons in a prolonged and successful resistance against British colonial forces. Known for her strategic brilliance, spiritual guidance, and unique use of guerrilla warfare, Nanny's legacy as a symbol of resistance and empowerment endures to this day. The episode delves into the complexities of her leadership, the eventual treaty with the British, and her lasting impact on Jamaican culture.

Sources:

Goodnight stories for rebel girls
https://www.blackheroesfoundation.org/people/nanny-of-the-maroons/

https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/article/section/colonialism-and-resistance/queen-nanny-the-iconic-leader-of-the-maroons/

https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/maritime-history/nanny-maroons

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/world-africa-45680992

https://enslaved.org/fullStory/16-23-126814/

00:00 Introduction and Apologies
00:44 Casual Catch-Up
01:56 A Journey to Jamaica
02:36 Historical Context of Jamaica
03:44 Nanny of the Maroons: The Legend Begins
08:34 The Maroon Communities
11:45 Nanny's Leadership and Strategy
15:41 Psychological Warfare and British Fear
19:06 Facing the Unknown: British Soldiers in the Jungle
20:05 The Power of Rumours and Spiritual Beliefs
21:47 Nanny's Strategic Brilliance in Guerrilla Warfare
23:53 The Unyielding Stronghold: Nanny Town
28:51 The Treaty and Its Complex Legacy
35:24 Nanny's Enduring Legacy and Recognition
40:08 Conclusion and Call to Action

Celebrating Women Inventors: Pioneers of Change

In this episode, we delve into the remarkable contributions of women inventors who revolutionized the world. From Mary Anderson’s windshield wiper and Josephine Cochran’s dishwasher to the unnoticed yet impactful paper coffee filter by Melitta Bentz, we highlight how these innovations transformed daily life. The episode also touches on the wider social changes brought by bicycles and household appliances, and honors the tireless efforts of influential figures like Sarah Breedlove (Madame C.J. Walker) and the birth control pill's activists. Tune in for an inspiring journey through history's overlooked female trailblazers and their groundbreaking inventions.

Other episodes mentioned: 6.Bessie Blount and 21. Grace Hopper

00:00 Saturday Pajamas and Morning Banter
01:45 A Whistle-Stop Tour of Women Inventors
04:02 The Windshield Wiper: Mary Anderson's Story
09:45 The Paper Coffee Filter: Melitta Bentz's Innovation
14:17 The Dishwasher: Josephine Cochran's Invention
19:42 Introduction to Sarah Breedlove
20:15 Madame CJ Walker's Early Life
22:21 Founding a Haircare Empire
24:46 Philanthropy and Legacy
26:44 Impact of the Bicycle on Women's Independence
29:52 Household Innovations and Women's Workforce Participation
34:55 The Birth Control Pill Revolution
41:30 Encouragement for Future Innovators
42:49 Conclusion and Call to Action

Who was Elizabeth Fry?

This episode dives into the life and legacy of Elizabeth Fry, a pioneering Quaker who transformed prison conditions in the 19th century. The narrative begins with Elizabeth's discovery of horrendous prison conditions at Newgate Prison. She implemented groundbreaking reforms, including appointing female officers for women prisoners, introducing craft activities, and providing basic education. Her influence extended beyond prisons, affecting hospital nursing standards and contributing to the abolition of transportation and slavery. Elizabeth's work earned her historical acclaim and recognition, including her appearance on the British five-pound note. The episode encapsulates her tireless efforts to promote kindness, dignity, and rehabilitation over punishment in various societal institutions.

Other episodes mentioned: 36. Betsi Cadwaladr and 8. Nellie Bly

00:00 Discovering the Power of Chatbots
02:23 Introducing Elizabeth Fry: The Angel of Prisons
03:23 The Quaker Influence and Early Life of Elizabeth Fry
10:37 Elizabeth Fry's Marriage and the Catalyst for Change
11:56 Transforming Newgate Prison: Elizabeth Fry's Mission
21:27 Elizabeth Fry's Secret Mission
22:24 Convincing the Authorities
23:48 Expanding the Reform Movement
24:43 Royal Support and International Influence
27:29 Personal Struggles and Continued Advocacy
30:12 Prison Reforms and Transportation to Australia
39:58 Legacy and Lasting Impact

Sources
https://averilopperman.co.uk/2015/09/24/elizabeth-fry-as-a-
child/#:~:text=Earlham%20Hall%2C%20Elizabeth%20Fry's%20childhood,Quakerism
%2C%20'Apology'%5D.
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Quaker
https://www.quaker.org.uk/faith/our-faith
https://www.elizabethfry.co.uk/who-was-elizabeth-fry/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8rd45dlnnjo
https://www.quaker-tapestry.co.uk/2022/03/08/elizabeth-fry-and-the-patchwork-quilts/
EBSCO, "Elizabeth Fry | Research Starters"
EFRY Peel-Halton, "History"
Historic UK, "Elizabeth Fry"
MyLearning, "Who was Elizabeth Fry and Why is She an Important Figure? • Prison
and Penal Reform in the 1800s"
Wikipedia, "Elizabeth Fry"

Maryam Mirzakhani: The Trailblazing Mathematician

This episode of 'She Changed History' delves into the life and legacy of Maryam Mirzakhani, an extraordinary Iranian mathematician and the first woman to win the basically the math olympics. Discussing her journey from a childhood during the Iran-Iraq war to her groundbreaking work in hyperbolic geometry, the episode highlights her resilience, optimism, and the critical support she received from teachers and peers. Maryam's remarkable achievements continue to inspire women in mathematics and science, leaving an enduring impact on the field.

Sources today area

1 https://mathshistory.st-
andrews.ac.uk/Biographies/Mirzakhani/
2 https://www.britannica.com/biography/Maryam-Mirzakhani
3 https://www.theguardian.com/science/2014/aug/13/interview-
maryam-mirzakhani-fields-medal-winner-mathematician
4 https://www.quantamagazine.org/years-after-the-early-death-
of-a-math-genius-her-ideas-gain-new-life-20250303/

5 https://www.theguardian.com/science/2017/jul/19/maryam-
mirzakhani-obituary
6
https://www.forbes.com/sites/startswithabang/2017/08/01/mary
am-mirzakhani-a-candle-illuminating-the-dark/
7 https://www.cantorsparadise.com/maryam-mirzakhani-
humble-till-the-end-856961ffd946
8 https://mariyamraza.medium.com/understanding-labor-of-
love-through-the-life-of-maryam-mirzakhani-a76e40f91ad5
9 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-28739373

00:00 Introduction and Algorithm Woes
00:26 Henry Cavill and Chivalry
01:47 Weekend Vibes and Math Talk
02:38 Introducing Maryam Mirzakhani
03:43 Early Life in Iran
05:29 Educational Journey and Challenges
11:46 Mathematical Olympiad Success
17:32 University Years and Research
20:37 Tragedy and Resilience
21:33 A Passion for Mathematics
21:42 Harvard and the Fields Medal
24:22 Understanding Hyperbolic Geometry
27:52 Maryam's Academic Journey
33:32 Breaking Barriers in Mathematics
38:57 Legacy and Final Years

Edith Cowan: A Life of Unyielding Advocacy and Public Service

In this episode, the hosts discuss the life of Edith Cowan, a notable figure in Australian history. Born in 1861, Cowan faced immense personal tragedies early in life, including the loss of her mother and witnessing the aftermath of her father's drunken violence. Despite these adversities, she went on to have a profound impact on public service, particularly focused on women's rights, child protection, and education. Cowan co-founded numerous organizations, was the first woman elected to an Australian parliament, and pushed for various legal reforms, including women’s legal rights and child welfare. Her legacy includes being featured on the Australian $50 bill and having a university named in her honor. This episode explores her journey from a tragic childhood to becoming a national symbol of hope and relentless advocacy.

00:00 Casual Conversations and Comfort Films
01:43 Introducing Edith Cowan: A Tale of Tragedy and Triumph
04:09 Early Life and Family Tragedies
11:08 A New Beginning: Marriage and Motherhood
13:15 Championing Women's Rights and Social Reforms
22:31 Edith's Remarkable Strength and Generosity
23:36 World War I and Australia's Role
27:04 Edith's Contributions During the War
28:53 Edith's Political Milestones
34:46 Edith's Legislative Achievements
40:03 Edith's Legacy and Final Years
45:46 Conclusion and Reflection

Sources today are:
https://www.nma.gov.au/defining-moments/resources/edith-cowan
https://www.ecu.edu.au/about-ecu/welcome-to-ecu/edith-dircksey-cowan
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Edith-Cowan
https://candowisdom.com/politics/edith-cowans-inspiring-story#:~:text=Edith%20faces%20a%20new%20life,the%20Perth%20suburb%20of%20Guildford.
https://www.morethanourchildhoods.org/
https://www.karrakattaclub.com.au/history
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia_in_World_War_I
https://www.wa.gov.au/system/files/2021-01/IWD-Edith-Cowan-Factsheet.pdf
https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/WebCMS/webcms.nsf/content/edith-cowan-centenary-edc100parliamentarycareer
https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/WebCMS/webcms.nsf/content/edith-cowan-centenary-edc100communityservice

Games of Thrones, China's only female Emperor

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' Cara and Vicky go behind the curtain and delve into the remarkable life and legacy of Empress Wu, the only female emperor in Chinese history. They explore her determined rise to power during the Tang Dynasty, navigating a complex patriarchal society, and the controversial and often dark rumours surrounding her ascent. The discussion highlights her significant reforms, including the promotion of meritocracy, economic improvements, and the advancement of women's rights, and her influence on the spread of Buddhism in China. Despite the attempts to erase her achievements, Wu's impact on Chinese history remains profound and enduring.

00:00 Crafting Halloween Decorations
00:40 Introducing the Story of Wu Zetian
02:46 Setting the Scene: Tang Dynasty
07:21 Wu Zetian's Early Life and Rise
12:24 Intrigues and Power Struggles
16:21 Wu Zetian's Ruthless Ascendancy
20:05 Empress Dowager to Emperor
21:12 Imperial Imagery and Self-Representation
22:56 Meritocracy and Government Reforms
24:52 Strengthening Borders and Diplomacy
26:23 Economic Reforms and Tax Policies
27:32 Promotion of Buddhism and Cultural Influence
30:57 Advancement of Women's Rights
33:31 Legacy and Historical Perception
36:43 Conclusion and Reflections